Product Preview: A Compensator With Tunable Baffles

Tactical accoutrements seem to be all the rage these days, but finding ones that suit your needs can prove difficult. UM Tactical of Lake Worth, Fla., has a 100 percent American-made product in its line that is worth a look—R.A.G.E. TCS, also known as the Rapid Adjustable Gas Expulsion Total Compensation System, fills the niche of tunable muzzle brake/compensator.

The system is designed to be adjusted. With installation being very straight-forward, I started by removing the factory A2 flash hider from the Ruger AR-556 test rifle. I applied the product as outlined in the instructions; first with the crush washer, TCS Barrel, Port Washers, and lastly the TCS Nut and set screws. Using the factory configuration of Port Washers (baffles) I headed to the range for round one of testing. I immediately noticed a dampening of recoil, but I also observed that the gun wanted to rise ever so slightly. Consulting the user’s manual, it became apparent that I had flipped the last Port Washer in line 180 degrees off axis. Though not incorrect, the flow of gas that was to counteract upward movement was blocked off, resulting in added muzzle rise. After reinstalling the “right way,” it became evident that the R.A.G.E. TCS works—the gun didn’t move. Switching baffles in random order throughout testing produced different effects of muzzle rise and recoil.

The stainless steel construction makes the unit durable, and because the system is easily disassembled, it is also easily cleaned via a sonic cleaner or brush. The company offers the product in various finishes. The device also complies with USPSA Multi-gun and 3 Gun Nation rules.Price: $160. Contact: UM Tactical, 1955 10th Ave. N., Lake Worth, FL, 33461; (866) 979-4486; umtactical.com.